Abstract: A system for inserting alert based information into broadcast programming over a program distribution network. A program distributor transmits broadcast programming over program distribution network via a network fabric. When program distributor receives alert based information, the program distributor converts the alert information from a first format to a second format compatible with the broadcast programming and the program distributor inserts the converted alert into a signal carrying the broadcast programming via the network fabric. A method is also disclosed for inserting alert based information into a broadcast programming transmitted over a program distribution network.

Abstract: An alert receiver includes a discriminator, which receives encoded signals from a network. The encoded signals report an event from an information source coupled to the network, wherein the discriminator compares the encoded signals, which include codes designating geographic locations, to codes associated with specific localities to determine whether to alert a user. A warning device is responsive to a result of comparing the encoded signals to the codes associated with specific localities.

Abstract: A television signal processing system having an emergency alert function is capable of receiving emergency alert signals and providing alert outputs to notify individuals of emergency events. According to one exemplary embodiment, the television signal processing system includes a tuner operative to tune a frequency including emergency alert signals indicating an emergency event. A processor is operative to enable an alert output responsive to the emergency alert signals when the emergency event indicated by the emergency alert signals corresponds to a geographical area selectable by a user. According to another exemplary embodiment, the processor is operative to enable an alert output responsive to the emergency alert signals when the emergency event indicated by the emergency alert signals corresponds to a predetermined event selectable by a user.